Personal protective equipment

ABSTRACT

A personal protective equipment ( 10 ) is described, comprising: —a filtering face mask ( 15 ) comprising a concave portion ( 20 ) adapted to receive part of the face of a user and a filtering septum, and —a support apparatus ( 55 ′) for said face mask ( 15 ) which is provided with: o a wearable element comprising an adhesive tape ( 65 ), and with o a quick coupling device ( 150 ′) provided with a first portion ( 240 ) and a second portion ( 161 ) which are removably fixed to each other and in which the first portion ( 240 ) is fixed to the face mask ( 15 ) and the second portion ( 161 ) is integrally joined with the adhesive tape ( 65 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a personal protective equipment comprising a filtering type face mask, such as a surgical mask, FFP2, FFP3, KN95 mask, etc., and a support apparatus. In particular, the support apparatus is adapted to keep the face mask in contact with the user.

PRIOR ART

Filtering type face masks, configured to filter air from particles suspended therein, are known to be provided with a concave portion shaped to embrace the portion of the user's face where the nose and mouth are located. These face masks comprise a filtering septum adapted to filter the air and positioned in the concave portion. Alternatively, the entire concave portion is made of a filter material such as a fabric or a non-woven fabric. These face masks are held in place on the user's face by elastic bands that surround the user's nape of the neck or ears to pull the concave portion in contact with the user's face.

A known problem with these filtering face masks is that the elastic band tends to stretch during use, becoming less effective in holding the concave portion pressed to the nose and mouth. In addition, elastic bands tend to mark the area of the head they contact, particularly in the area at the back of the ears.

An object of the present invention is to overcome the mentioned drawbacks of the prior art, within the context of a simple and rational solution and at a contained cost.

Such object is achieved by the features of the invention indicated in the independent claim. The dependent claims outline preferred and/or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The invention makes available a personal protective equipment comprising:

-   -   a filtering face mask comprising a concave portion adapted to         receive part of the face of a user and a filtering septum, and     -   a support apparatus for said face mask which is provided with:         -   a wearable element comprising an adhesive tape, and with         -   a quick coupling device provided with a first portion and a             second portion which are removably fixed to each other and             in which the first portion is fixed to the face mask and the             second portion is integrally joined with the adhesive tape.

This solution makes a personal protective equipment available in which the concave portion of the face mask remains in place on the user's face in a particularly effective way even after prolonged use.

This personal protective equipment is also comfortable to put on and take off in very short times and avoids irritations and/or marks left by the elastic bands of known face masks.

According to one aspect of the invention, the quick coupling device may be of the magnetic type or of the quick release mechanical type.

In this way, a quick coupling device is made available that allows the face mask to be put on or taken off quickly and easily, e.g. with just one hand of the user, without the need to operate any mechanism and/or without the need for special tools.

One aspect of the invention further provides that the quick coupling device may be of a magnetic type and one between the first portion and the second portion may comprise a magnet.

In this way, a functional quick coupling device is made available for a stable and secure connection.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the adhesive tape may comprise an inner face at least partially covered with an adhesive substance, i.e. a film of an adhesive substance, and an opposite outer face.

Thanks to this solution, an effective wearable element is made available, which is easy to manufacture and cost effective.

An aspect of the invention further provides that the outer face of the adhesive tape may comprise a housing pocket inside which the second portion of the quick coupling device is housed.

In this way, a wearable element is made available which allows to ensure a practical and immediate connection between the first portion and the second portion of the quick coupling device, and thus a simple coupling of the face mask to the wearable element.

According to one aspect of the invention, the first portion of the quick coupling device may be irremovably fixed to the face mask.

In particular, one aspect of the invention provides that the first portion of the quick coupling device may be sewn or embedded or glued or incorporated in the material that the face mask is made of.

According to another aspect of the invention, the face mask may comprise a pair of elastic bands arranged at the ends and wherein the first portion is irremovably fixed to said elastic bands.

The invention also makes available a support apparatus for a filtering type face mask (e.g., a surgical mask, an FFP2, FFP3, KN95 mask, etc.), said apparatus being provided with:

-   -   a wearable element, and with     -   a quick coupling device provided with a first portion and a         second portion which are removably fixed to each other and in         which the first portion is provided with a device for anchoring         to the face mask and the second portion integrally joined with         the wearable element.

Thanks to this solution, a support apparatus is made available which holds the face mask in place on the user's face in a particularly effective way even after prolonged use, and which allows the face mask to be put on and taken off in very short times.

In particular, the wearable element with which this support apparatus is provided makes it possible to avoid irritations and/or marks left by the elastic bands of the face masks, while at the same time guaranteeing the tightness of the face mask on the user's face, even after prolonged use thereof.

A further advantage of these features consists in the fact that the use of the face mask becomes safer when operating in environments with machinery provided with high-speed moving parts (such as manual cutting tools), since the elastic bands of the normal face mask could get entangled and dragged by the moving parts, while the invention allows a safe separation of the parts avoiding moving parts being dragged.

According to one aspect of the invention, the anchoring device may be provided with a first section and a second section adapted to clamp a portion of the face mask together.

In this way, an anchoring device is made available which allows the face mask to be stably and securely interconnected to the wearable element, and which is comfortable and free of discomfort for the user wearing said face mask.

According to another aspect of the invention, the anchoring device may comprise an elongated body adapted to pierce a portion of the face mask.

In this way, an anchoring device is made available which is simple to manufacture and capable of allowing an effective connection between the face mask and the wearable element.

A further aspect of the invention provides that the anchoring device may comprise a threaded connection member configured to clamp the first section against the second section.

Thanks to this solution, the connection is particularly stable and secure.

Another aspect of the invention provides that the quick coupling device may be of a magnetic type and that the first portion comprises a metal portion or a magnet.

In this way, a resistant and functional quick coupling device is made available for a stable and secure connection.

Still another aspect of the invention provides that the wearable element may comprise a pair of circumaural temples.

Thanks to this solution, the face mask is coupled to a wearable element that is particularly comfortable, even for prolonged use.

Further, according to another aspect of the invention, the wearable element may comprise a pin.

In this way, the user can take off the mask and bring it along with him, without having to touch the filtering part, coupling it comfortably to said pin.

Furthermore, the coupling pin allows the face mask to be kept within reach of the user, who can thus take and stow it quickly and easily.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the wearable element can be adapted to be fixed to the temple of a pair of eyeglasses and can comprise a through hole adapted to be crossed by said temple.

In this way, the wearable element does not hinder the use of the eyeglasses.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the wearable element may comprise an adhesive tape.

In this way the face mask is comfortable to be put on and taken off in very short times and avoids irritations and/or marks left by the elastic bands of known face masks.

The invention further makes available a personal protective equipment comprising:

-   -   a filtering face mask comprising a concave portion adapted to         receive part of the face of a user and a filtering septum, and     -   a support apparatus for said face mask which is provided with:         -   a wearable element, and with         -   a quick coupling device provided with a first portion and a             second portion which are removably fixed to each other and             in which the first portion is provided with a device for             anchoring to the face mask and the second portion integrally             joined with the wearable element.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the invention also provides for a kit formed by the circumaural temples, or by the wearable element adapted to be fixed to the temple of a pair of eyeglasses, or by the adhesive tape and by the pin (the kit therefore comprises a pair of distinct wearable elements adapted to be fixed to two different areas of the body). Thanks to this solution, a complete kit is made available that allows the face mask to be used effectively, stowing it comfortably and safely when momentarily removed from the face.

The invention further makes available a personal protective equipment comprising:

-   -   a filtering face mask comprising a concave portion adapted to         receive part of the face of a user and a filtering septum, and     -   a support apparatus for said face mask which is provided with:         -   a wearable element, and with         -   a quick coupling device having a first portion and a second             portion which are removably fixed to each other and in which             the first portion is irremovably fixed to the face mask and             the second portion is integrally joined with the wearable             element.

For example, the first portion may be embedded in the material that the face mask is made of. In particular, if the face mask has the entire concave portion made of fabric material or non-woven fabric material, the first portion of the quick coupling device can be inserted or glued or embedded or intersected with the fibres that make up the fabric and the non-woven fabric.

Preferably, the wearable element is one between a circumaural temple, a body adapted to be attached to the temple of a pair of eyeglasses and provided with a hole adapted to be crossed by the eyeglass temple, and a pin.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages of the invention will be more apparent after reading the following description provided by way of non-limiting example, with the aid of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a personal protective equipment with a wearable element in a first embodiment thereof.

FIG. 2 is an axonometric view of the wearable element according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 2A is an axonometric view of the wearable element according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 2B is an enlarged exploded view of a first coupling end of the wearable element according to the third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a first portion of a quick coupling device of the personal protective equipment of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3A is a side view of the first portion of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 3B is a plan view of the first portion of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 4 is an axonometric view of a wearable element according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a front view of the wearable element of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 4B is a side view of the wearable element of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 4C is a view showing the wearable element of FIG. 4 in use.

FIG. 5 is a side view of a fifth embodiment of the wearable element.

FIG. 5A is a view showing the wearable element of FIG. 5 in use.

FIG. 6 is an axonometric view of a sixth embodiment of the wearable element.

FIG. 7 is a front view of the face mask to which the first portion of the quick coupling device according to the invention is fixed.

FIG. 7A is a side view of FIG. 7 .

FIG. 8 is a view showing the personal protective equipment provided with the wearable element of FIG. 6 , and with the face mask to which the first portion of the quick coupling device of FIGS. 7 and 7A is fixed, in use.

BEST MODE OF THE INVENTION

With particular reference to these figures, 10,10′ globally indicates a personal protective equipment, that is a piece of equipment adapted to be worn by a user aimed at protecting from (or limiting the probability of breathing) particles suspended in the air. In particular, this personal protective equipment is substantially a kit consisting of a filtering type face mask and a support for said face mask, as will be better illustrated below.

The personal protective equipment 10,10′ comprises a filtering face mask 15 adapted to embrace a portion of the user's face so as to inscribe his mouth and nose. The face mask 15 may for example be one between a surgical mask, an FFP2 mask, an FFP3 mask, an N95 mask, or an N99 mask, or any mask configured to filter the air in an environment.

For example, the face mask 15 may be deformable, deformable meaning that it can be bent without compromising the structural integrity thereof.

The face mask 15, in any case, comprises a concave portion 20, with concavity facing the user's face and circumscribing the user's mouth and nose.

The concave portion 20 has a concave inner face 25 facing the nose and the mouth of the user and an opposite convex outer face 30 facing the external environment.

For example, the concave portion 20 comprises a perimeter edge 35 closed substantially into a ring, for example shaped, which is adapted to come into contact at least partially with the user's face.

In practice, the perimeter edge 35 is adapted to rest on the user's nose and cheeks, and protrude beyond the user's chin.

The concave portion 20, when the perimeter edge 35 rests on the user's face, delimits a (substantially) closed volume communicating with the user's mouth and nose.

The concave portion 20 is a shaped body having a thin thickness (less than 5 mm), and is provided with a material having, for example, reduced tensile elasticity, for example in a fabric and/or a non-woven fabric, preferably a multi-layered material in a fabric and/or a non-woven fabric.

The concave portion 20, for example as in the case of surgical or FFP2 masks or in any case all those not provided with a valve to regulate the passage of air between the external environment and the environment created between the concave portion and the user's face, is made entirely of a multi-layered filtering material configured to filter the air from particles suspended therein.

One layer the multi-layered material of the concave portion 20 may be provided with is, for example, made of a hydrophobic material.

In addition to or as an alternative to the multi-layered material of the concave portion 20 described above, the face mask 15 may comprise a filtering septum housed in the concave portion and adapted to filter air from particles suspended therein. In such a case, the concave portion 20 is not filtering, but substantially hermetic.

The filtering septum (not shown in the Figure) is for example grafted, preferably rigidly fixed without residual degrees of freedom, at a through opening (not shown) made in the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, preferably but not limitedly at a central area of the concave portion 20.

In particular, the through opening in which the filtering septum is fixed may be made at the concave portion 20 so as to cross it in a substantially orthogonal direction.

The face mask 15 comprises, for example, a conformable nose pad adapted to give adherence to the face mask at the user's nose.

Such a conformable nose pad comprises a nasal bar 40 adapted to adapt to the user's nose in order to allow adherence of the perimeter edge 35 of the concave portion 20 at the user's nose.

The nasal bar 40 is connected to the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, for example near the perimeter edge 35, preferably at an upper portion of the convex outer face 30 of the concave portion 20 adapted to rest on the user's nose.

Preferably, the nasal bar 40 is rigidly fixed at the upper portion of the convex outer face 30 of the concave portion 20, for example by gluing or other known fixing techniques.

For example, the nasal bar 40 is made of a ductile material that can be manually deformed by the user.

The conformable nose pad may also comprise a cushion (not shown in the Figure) adapted to provide additional comfort when resting the face mask 15 at the user's nose.

The face mask 15 further comprises retaining means adapted to exert a traction action of the concave portion 20 of the face mask towards the face of the user.

Such retaining means comprise a plurality of straps or lanyards 45, for example two in number, surrounding the nape of the neck or ears of the user with the function of holding at least part of the perimeter edge 35 of the concave portion 20 in contact with the user's face.

Each strap or lanyard 45 may be made of a single elastic type material, for example an interwoven fabric comprising elastic fibres.

Each strap or lanyard is preferably between 15 cm and 30 cm long and has a circular or rectangular cross-section. If the section is circular, the diameter of the section is less than 2-4 mm, if the section is rectangular, the minimum thickness of the section is less than 1-2 mm.

In particular, said straps 45 are adapted to be fixed by respective fixing means 50 to the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, preferably at the perimeter edge 35.

In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the fixing means 50 are a plurality, preferably two pairs of fixing means, for example symmetrically arranged with respect to the sagittal mid-plane of the face mask.

The fixing means 50 can be constituted by heat sealing which rigidly joins one end of the strap 45 to the concave portion 20.

Alternatively, the fixing means may comprise a hole made at a part of the perimeter edge 35, adapted to be engaged by a respective end of a strap 45.

As a further alternative, each respective end of a strap 45 is adapted to engage the respective hole 50 from the outside and to be locked therein, for example by gluing, at the concave inner face 25 of the concave portion 20 (of the face mask 15).

Furthermore, it is not excluded that the fixing means 50 may be defined by hooks, buttons, seams and/or for example by fins made, for example, as a single body with the perimeter edge 35 of the concave portion 20, on which the straps 45 may be rigidly fixed by gluing. The personal protective equipment 10,10′ further comprises a support apparatus 55,55′ for the face mask 15 adapted to exert a pulling action of the face mask towards the face of the user, or adapted to hold the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15 in place on the user's face.

In practice, the support apparatus 55,55′ can be used as an alternative to the retaining means of the face mask described above.

In particular, the personal protective equipment 10,10′ comprises a pair of identical support apparatuses 55,55′, adapted to exert a pulling action of the face mask 15 towards the face of the user in a symmetrical manner with respect to the sagittal mid-plane of the face mask itself.

Each support apparatus 55,55′ comprises a wearable element, meaning by wearable element an element that can be directly fixed to the user's body or to a further element worn by the user.

The wearable element may for example comprise, i.e. consists of, a pair of circumaural temples 60,61,62.

Each of said circumaural temples 60,61,62 is shaped to be coupled externally to an ear of the user, externally surrounding the auricle so as to position itself between the skull and the auricle, resting above the ear.

Preferably, the circumaural temple 60,61,62 is formed by a monolithic body preferably made of a substantially rigid material, i.e. one that does not deform under the normal working loads to which it is subjected.

For example, the material of the circumaural temple 60 has a percentage value of elongation at break of less than 50%, according to the UNI EN ISO 527 standard. Preferably, the material of the temple body has a percentage value of elongation at break of less than 20%, according to the UNI EN ISO 527 standard.

In a first variant of the circumaural temple 60, and first embodiment of the wearable element, it comprises for example a C-shaped, or curved portion, which directly contacts an outer portion of the auricle to surround it at the rear, a first supporting end 66, and a second coupling end 70 between which the C-shaped portion 75 is interposed.

At least the C-formed portion 75 is elongated, i.e., less thick than long, e.g., the thickness is greater than 10 mm along the entire longitudinal extent of the C-formed portion.

The first supporting end 66 of the circumaural temple 60 has for example greater radial dimensions than the radial dimensions of the C-shaped portion 75 thereof, in order to allow a stable support of the circumaural temple 60 on the user's ear.

In use, the first supporting end 66 is proximal to an upper portion of the auricle, i.e. to the tragus of the user's ear.

The second coupling end 70 of the circumaural temple protrudes from the C-shaped portion 75 on the opposite side with respect to the first supporting end 66.

In particular, the second coupling end 70 protrudes towards the face of the user, or towards the face mask 15 (when worn), passing, for example, in use, under the user's ear lobe.

In a second variant of the circumaural temple 61, and second embodiment of the wearable element, illustrated of FIG. 2 , it comprises a C-shaped, i.e. curved, portion which directly contacts an outer portion of the auricle to surround it at the rear, a first coupling end 80, and a second supporting end 85 between which the C-shaped portion 75 is interposed, which C-shaped portion is substantially similar to the C-shaped portion of the first embodiment of the wearable element.

At least the C-formed portion 75 is elongated, i.e., less thick than long, e.g., the thickness is greater than 10 mm along the entire longitudinal extent of the C-formed portion.

The second supporting end 85 of the circumaural temple 61 has for example greater radial dimensions than the radial dimensions of the C-shaped portion 75 thereof, in order to allow a stable support of the circumaural temple 61 on the user's ear. Preferably this portion is also flattened.

The second supporting end 85 protrudes from the C-shaped portion 75 passing, for example, in use, below the user's earlobe.

The first coupling end 80 of the circumaural temple 61 protrudes from the C-shaped portion 75 towards the second supporting end 85, so that in use the first coupling end 80 protrudes from an upper portion of the auricle, i.e. to the tragus of the user's ear, downwards.

In a third variant of the circumaural temple 62, and third embodiment of the wearable element, illustrated of FIG. 2A, the circumaural temple 62 is shaped like the circumaural temple 61 of the second variant, with the exception of the first coupling end, which will be explained right below.

The circumaural temple 62 thus comprises a C-shaped, i.e. curved, portion, which directly contacts an outer portion of the auricle to surround it at the rear, a first coupling end 90, and a second support end 85 between which it is interposed the C-shaped portion 75.

In particular, the first coupling end 90, in this third embodiment of the wearable element, comprises a first body 81 and a second body 95 hinged together with respect to a hinge axis.

For example, such a hinge axis is horizontal in use.

The first body 81 of the first coupling end 90 of the circumaural temple 62 is substantially similar to the first coupling end 80 of the circumaural temple 61.

Thus, the first body 81 protrudes from the C-shaped portion 75 towards the second supporting end 85, so that in use the first body 81 of the first coupling end 90 protrudes from an upper portion of the auricle, i.e. to the tragus of the user's ear, downwards.

The first body 81 of the first coupling end 90 may be provided with a through hole 100, for example a threaded through hole, the axis of which defines the hinge axis of the first coupling end 90.

The second body 95 of the first coupling end 90 is adapted to be hinged to the first body 81, for example so as to protrude, in use, below the first body 81.

Said second body 95 may also be provided with a through hole 105, for example a threaded hole.

In said third embodiment, the wearable element 62 also comprises threaded connection means, for example a screw 110, adapted to allow the coupling of the first body 81 to the second body 95, at the respective through holes 105, 110.

In the embodiment shown of FIG. 2A, the second body 95 of the first coupling end 90 is cylindrical in shape and is provided with an elongated portion adapted to be hinged to the first body 81.

It is not excluded that the second body 95 may be of any adapted shape to allow a connection with the first body 81 of the first coupling end 90.

Furthermore, it is not excluded that the first body 81 and the second body 95 may be coupled by means of a spherical joint or any other connection means allowing at least one degree of rotational freedom of the second body 95 with respect to the first body 81. In a fourth embodiment of the invention, illustrated in FIGS. 4, 4A, 4B, 4C, the wearable element 63 is shaped to be fixed to the temple of a pair of eyeglasses.

Preferably, two wearable elements 63 are provided which are shaped so as to be crossed each by a respective temple of a pair of eyeglasses, protruding outwards in a direction away therefrom.

Each wearable element is, for example, substantially L-shaped and comprises a first longitudinal coupling end 115, an intermediate portion 120, and a second longitudinal coupling end 125.

The first coupling end 115 of the wearable element 63 comprises a through hole 130 adapted to be crossed by the eyeglass temple.

This through hole 130 is shaped so as to have a diameter which may be (at least slightly) less than the diameter (or the overall radial dimension) of the temple of a pair of eyeglasses, in order to permit a stable fixing by interference of the wearable element 63 to said temple.

Preferably the through hole 130 has a diameter comprised between 2 mm and 10 mm.

The wearable element 63, at the through hole 130, may be at least partially made of a flexible material, i.e., capable of deforming to allow the coupling to the eyeglass temple, for example such material may be rubber.

At the through hole 130, the wearable element 63 may also have a high degree of roughness in order to improve stability on the temple.

Furthermore, at least part of the wearable element 63 is made of a substantially rigid material, i.e. not deformable under the loads to which it is subjected in use, which may be covered by the portion of a flexible material (rubber).

The intermediate portion 120 of the wearable element 63 extends from the first coupling end 115 in a transverse direction, for example perpendicular, to a central axis of the through hole 130.

The second coupling end 125 of the wearable element 63 protrudes transversely, e.g. squared, to the intermediate portion 120 in the direction of approach to the user's face.

In particular, the second coupling end 125 protrudes towards the user's face, i.e. towards the face mask 15 (when worn), along a direction substantially parallel to a central axis of the through hole 130.

In use, the second end 125 passes below the eyeglass temple (when worn) to which the wearable element 63 is fixed.

In a fifth embodiment, the wearable element may also comprise, i.e. consist of, a clothing accessory configured to be removably fixable to a garment, preferably in the form of a pin 64.

For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, the pin 64 fixed to the breast pocket of a jacket is shown by way of example.

It cannot be ruled out that such a pin 64 could be fixed to any garment, e.g. made of fabric.

In particular, the pin 64 may comprise a portion in a magnetic material and/or a portion in a ferromagnetic material.

For example, the pin 64 comprises a slab-shaped body 135 (of thin thickness), preferably provided with a flat face painted and/or with raised lettering, in particular of circular shape and reduced diameter.

Alternatively, the pin 64 may comprise a body of any shape and size.

In detail, the slab-like body 135 of the pin 64 may consist of a magnetic element 140.

It is not excluded, alternatively or additionally, that the slab-shaped body 135 of the pin 64 may comprise (or consist of) a part of a snap button or a snap closure (or similar).

The pin 64 further comprises, for example, a needle 145 rigidly fixed to the body of the pin and adapted to pierce the fabric on which the pin is fixed.

Alternatively or additionally, the pin 64 may comprise an elastic clamp, a serrated clamp, or any other adapted means for clamping and/or piercing the portion of fabric on which the pin is to be fixed.

In a sixth embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8 , the wearable element is adapted to be applied removably, for example directly, to the skin of the user.

In said sixth embodiment, the wearable element comprises, i.e. consists of, an adhesive tape 65.

For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 , the adhesive tape 65 applied to the user's face near an ear is shown by way of example.

Preferably, two separate adhesive tapes 65 are provided which are adapted to be applied to the user's face, e.g., symmetrically with respect to the sagittal mid-plane of the user's face.

Each adhesive tape 65 is shaped as a deformable strip, e.g. substantially quadrangular in shape.

For example, by strip it is intended a slab-shaped body with reduced thickness.

The adhesive tape 65 comprises an inner face 651, for example flat, and an opposite outer face 652, for example flat and parallel to the inner face 651.

In the present discussion, the inner face 651 means the surface of the adhesive tape 65 adapted to contact the skin of the user, and the outer face 652 means the surface of the adhesive tape 65 facing the external environment.

In particular, the inner face 651 of the adhesive tape 65 is at least partially covered with an adhesive substance adapted to allow a stable connection of the adhesive tape 65 to the skin of the user.

For example, an adhesive substance may be applied to (at least part of) the inner face 651 of the adhesive tape 652. Alternatively or additionally, the inner face 651 of the adhesive tape 65 may, for example, comprise a fully adhesive layer.

The adhesive tape 65 further comprises a housing pocket 653, the main function of which will be better specified in the following description.

Preferably, said housing pocket 653 is made at the outer face 652 of the adhesive tape 65, so as to protrude, for example, in a direction orthogonal to the lying plane of said outer face 652, on the opposite side with respect to the inner face 651.

However, it is not excluded that the housing pocket 653 may be made at the outer face 652 by means of a recess obtained in the material of the adhesive tape 65.

The adhesive tape 65 may be made of plastic material or at least comprise a plastic film in contact with the adhesive. Alternatively or additionally, the adhesive tape 65 may be made of or comprise a layer of fabric or non-woven fabric.

It is not excluded that the adhesive tape 65 may comprise a multi-layered structure, thus constituted by superposition of layers having different material conformation and/or composition.

In the embodiment, the adhesive tape 65 is flexible. In practice, the adhesive tape 65 can be folded and/or rolled up (when not in use) without compromising the structural integrity thereof.

It is also not excluded that the adhesive tape 65 may be provided with rigid or semirigid/shape memory parts, so as to support its weight (substantially) without flexing.

The support apparatus, i.e., each support apparatus 55,55′ further comprises a quick coupling device 150,150′, i.e., quick coupling-release device, configured to removably interconnect the face mask 15 to the wearable element 60,61,62,63,64,65.

In particular, the quick coupling device 150,150′ comprises a first portion 155,240 adapted to anchor to the face mask, and a second portion 160,161 integrally joined with the wearable element 60,61,62,63,64,65.

In particular, the first portion 155,240 of the quick coupling device 150,150′ is adapted to be coupled to the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, for example at a lateral portion thereof, i.e. proximal to the cheeks of the user in use.

The first portion 155,240 and the second portion 160,161 of the quick coupling device 150,150′ are further configured to be removably fixed to each other.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3B, the first portion 155 of the quick coupling device 150 is provided with an anchoring device 165 configured to anchor the first portion 155 to said lateral portion of the face mask 15, that is to the concave portion 20 thereof. The anchoring device 165 is configured to clamp a part of the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15. In particular, the anchoring device 165 comprises a first section 170 and a second section 175 adapted to clamp a part of the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15.

This part is a part of the concave portion 20 made of fabric or non-woven fabric.

In one embodiment not shown, one between the first section 170 and the second section 175 of the anchoring device 165 may be embedded in the material that the face mask 15 is made of. In particular, one between the first section 170 and the second section 175 of the anchoring device 165 may be inserted or glued or embedded or intersected with the fibres composing the fabric and/or the non-woven fabric of the face mask 15.

The anchoring device 165 may comprise an elongated body adapted to pierce a portion of the face mask 15, for example this body protrudes cantilevered from one between the first section 170 and the second section 175 of the anchoring device 165.

The anchoring device 165 may also comprise a threaded connection member, for example a pair of screws, which is configured to clamp the first section 170 against the second section 175. Thus, one between the first section 170 and the second section 175 comprises a through hole and the other one comprises a threaded hole and the threaded connection member is adapted to cross the through hole by screwing into the threaded hole. The threaded connection member comprises a head which then pushes one of the two sections against the other section during screwing.

In one embodiment not illustrated, the anchoring device 165 may comprise a button closure, for example with a snap button, or a snap closure (such as a clip buckle, not described in detail as it is known to those skilled in the art).

For example, in the case of the snap button, the first section 170 comprises a first part of the snap button and the second section 175 comprises a second part of the snap button which is shaped to removably couple the first part. Again in this case, one between the first section 170 and the second section 175 is rigidly fixed to the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, which is therefore not clamped between the first section 170 and the second section 175. In practice, one part of the button protrudes from the face mask 15 in such a way that the other part of the snap button can be fixed thereto by pressing.

In another embodiment not shown, the one in which the anchoring device 165 comprises a clip buckle, the first section 170 comprises a first part of the clip buckle and the second section 175 comprises a second part of the clip buckle which is shaped to removably couple the first part. Again in this case, one between the first section 170 and the second section 175 is rigidly fixed to the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, which is therefore not clamped between the first section 170 and the second section 175. In practice, one part of the clip buckle protrudes from the face mask 15 so that the other part of the snap button can be fixed thereto by pressing.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first section 170 and the second section 175, each have a rectangular, slab-like (thin) shape, and each of which is provided with a respective inner face 180,185 and with a respective outer face 190,195 between which the concave portion 20 is clamped.

In detail, the first section 170 and the second section 175 are joined at a respective first end 200,205 and separated at a respective second end 210,215, so as to face each other at a respective inner face 180,185.

The first section 170 and the second section 175 of the anchoring device 165 are thus adapted to clamp between them said portion of the face mask 15, at the respective second end 210,215 between the inner faces 180,185 of each section.

For example, the inner face 180 of the first section 170 is adapted, in use, to contact the convex outer face 30 of the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, and the inner face 185 of the second section 175 is adapted, in use, to contact the concave inner face 25 of the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15.

The quick coupling device 150 comprises a body of elongated quadrangular shape, for example rectangular, adapted to pierce the lateral portion of the concave portion 20 of the face mask 15, preferably near the perimeter edge 35 thereof.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3B, the first portion 155 of the quick coupling device 150 comprises a pair of reliefs 220 (hooks) adapted to allow the straps 45 to be coupled (when not in use).

For example, the pair of reliefs 220 may emerge orthogonally to the lying plane of the outer face 190 of the first section 170.

Again, the pair of reliefs 220 may for example be made by carving the outer face 190 (and the inner face 180) of the first section 170, so that a portion of the first section 170 emerges from the outer face 190.

The second section 175 of the anchoring device 165 comprises at least one fixing pin 225, preferably a plurality of fixing pins 225, for example two in number, preferably arranged at the second end 215 thereof.

In particular, said fixing pins 225 are for example integral with the second end 215 (of the inner face 185) of the second section 175, and are adapted to retain the face mask 15 from the inside.

In detail, the fixing pins 225 are adapted to pierce the face mask 15, i.e. the concave portion 20 thereof adapted to be clamped between the first section 170 and the second section 175.

For example, these fixing pins 225 are internally hollow, preferably provided with an inner threaded hole.

The first section 170 of the anchoring device 165 further comprises at least one through hole 230, preferably a plurality of through holes, for example two in number, preferably arranged at the second end 210 thereof.

The anchoring device 165 comprises, in particular, at least one threaded connection member 235, for example two threaded connection members, adapted to be inserted into the through holes 230 of the first section 170.

In particular, the threaded connection members 235 are adapted to cross the first section 170 (at the through holes 230) and to be screwed into the inner threaded hole of each fixing pin 225.

Said threaded connection members 235 are, thereby, adapted to clamp the first section 170 against the second section 175, retaining the face mask portion 15 between them.

The anchoring device 165, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, comprises at least one portion made of metallic material.

The quick coupling device 150 further comprises a second portion 160,161 integral with (or forming part of) the wearable element 60,61,62,63,65 and adapted to be fixed to the first portion 155, preferably in a removable manner. For example, this second portion 160,161 is rigidly fixed to the wearable element 60,61,62,63,65 without residual degrees of freedom, preferably it is partially incorporated in the material of the wearable element 60,61,62,63,65 or is welded or glued or screwed thereto.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the quick coupling device 150,150′ is of a magnetic type. In such a case, the second portion 160,161 of the quick coupling device 150 comprises, therefore, a magnetic element, i.e. a magnet or a body made of ferromagnetic material.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-5A, the second portion 160 of the quick coupling device 150 comprises, i.e. consists of, a magnet rigidly fixed to the wearable element 60,61,62,63,64.

Preferably, if the quick coupling device 150 is of a magnetic type and the second portion 160 comprises a magnet, the first portion 155 is at least partially made of a ferromagnetic metal. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5A, the entire first portion 155, and for example also the anchoring device 165, is made of ferromagnetic material.

If the wearable element is the circumaural temple 60 of the first variant, the second portion 160, i.e., the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the second coupling end 70. If the wearable element is the circumaural temple 61 in the second variant thereof, the second portion 160, i.e., the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the first coupling end 80.

If the wearable element is the circumaural temple 62 in the third variant thereof, the second portion 160, i.e. the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the first coupling end 90, in particular to the second body 95 thereof.

If the wearable element is the body 63 adapted to be fixed to the eyeglass temple, the second portion 160, i.e., the magnet of the second portion, is rigidly fixed to the second longitudinal coupling end 125.

In further embodiments not shown in the Figure, the quick coupling device may be of the quick release mechanical type.

In such a case, the first portion and the second portion of the quick coupling device can collectively constitute a button closure, for example with a snap button, or a snap closure (for example a clip buckle).

For example, the first portion of the quick coupling device may comprise a part of a snap button adapted to be locked in a through opening made in the wearable element 60,61,62,63,64,65 (which comprises the second part of a snap button).

Again, for example, the first portion of the quick coupling device may comprise a flap adapted to be snapped into a through opening made in the wearable element 60,61,62,63,64,65 (which constitutes the second portion of quick coupling device).

In case the wearable element comprises, i.e. consists of, the adhesive tape 65, the second portion 161 of the quick coupling device 150′ preferably comprises a magnet or a body made of ferromagnetic material.

Furthermore, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7, 7A and 8 , the first portion 240 of the quick coupling device is irremovably fixed to the face mask 15.

In this case the first portion 240 does not comprise the anchoring device 165 or alternatively it can be said that the anchoring device can be replaced by an adhesive or in any case any irremovable fixing device, or the first portion of the quick coupling device could be incorporated in the material of the face mask 15.

In particular, the FIGS. 6 to 8 illustrate a personal protective equipment 10′ comprising:

-   -   the filtering face mask 15 comprising a concave portion 20         adapted to receive part of the face of a user and a filtering         septum, and     -   a support apparatus 55′ for said face mask 15 which is provided         with:         -   a wearable element comprising an adhesive tape 65, and with         -   a quick coupling device 150′, i.e. quick coupling-release,             provided with a first portion 240 and a second portion 161             which are removably fixed to each other and in which the             first portion 240 is fixed to the face mask 15 and the             second portion 161 is integrally joined with the wearable             element 65.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7, 7A and 8 , the first portion 240 of the quick coupling device 150′ is irremovably fixed to the face mask 15.

In particular, the first portion 240 of the quick coupling device 150 is sewn to or embedded in or glued to or incorporated in the material that which the face mask 15 is made of.

In more detail, the face mask 15 comprises an end flap 156 distal from the sagittal midplane of the face mask and in which the first portion 240 is positioned.

The wearable element preferably consists only of the adhesive tape 65, which is, for example, shaped like a plaster.

In detail, the adhesive tape 65 is shaped as a deformable strip, for example of a substantially quadrangular shape.

For example, by strip it is intended a slab-shaped body with reduced thickness.

The adhesive tape 65 comprises an inner face 651, for example flat, and an opposite outer face 652, for example flat and parallel to the inner face 651.

In the present discussion, the inner face 651 means the surface of the adhesive tape 65 adapted to contact the skin of the user, and the outer face 652 means the surface of the adhesive tape 65 facing the external environment.

In particular, the inner face 651 of the adhesive tape 65 is at least partially covered with an adhesive substance adapted to allow a stable connection of the adhesive tape 65 to the skin of the user.

For example, an adhesive substance may be applied to (at least part of) the inner face 651 of the adhesive tape 652. Alternatively or additionally, the inner face 651 of the adhesive tape 65 may, for example, comprise a fully adhesive layer.

The adhesive tape 65 further comprises a housing pocket 653, the main function of which will be better specified in the following description.

Preferably, said housing pocket 653 is made at the outer face 652 of the adhesive tape 65, so as to protrude, for example, in a direction orthogonal to the lying plane of said outer face 652, on the opposite side with respect to the inner face 651.

However, it is not excluded that the housing pocket 653 may be made at the outer face 652 by means of a recess obtained in the material of the adhesive tape 65.

The adhesive tape 65 may be made of plastic material or at least comprise a plastic film in contact with the adhesive. Alternatively or additionally, the adhesive tape 65 may be made of or comprise a layer of fabric or non-woven fabric.

It is not excluded that the adhesive tape 65 may comprise a multi-layered structure, thus constituted by superposition of layers having different material conformation and/or composition.

In the embodiment, the adhesive tape 65 is flexible. In practice, the adhesive tape 65 can be folded and/or rolled up (when not in use) without compromising the structural integrity thereof.

It is also not excluded that the adhesive tape 65 may be provided with rigid or semirigid/shape memory parts, so as to support its weight (substantially) without flexing.

The quick coupling device 150′ may be of the magnetic type, in which case the first portion 240 comprises a magnet or a body of ferromagnetic material. Accordingly, the second portion 161 may comprise a magnet or a body made of ferromagnetic material if the first portion comprises the magnet, or it must comprise a magnet if the first portion comprises the body made of ferromagnetic material.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8 , the first portion 240 comprises, i.e. consists of, a magnet and the second portion 161 comprises, i.e. consists of, a foil made of ferromagnetic material fixed, preferably rigidly fixed, to the adhesive tape 65.

In more detail, said foil is housed within the housing pocket 653 of the outer face 652 of the adhesive tape 65, and rigidly fixed therein.

Preferably, the personal protective equipment comprises two adhesive tapes 65, two quick coupling devices 150′ and the face mask comprises two end flaps opposite to the sagittal mid-plane of the face mask and in each of which a respective first portion 240 of the corresponding quick coupling device is positioned.

In further embodiments not shown in the Figure, the quick coupling device could be of the quick release mechanical type.

In such a case, the first portion and the second portion of the quick coupling device can collectively constitute a button closure, for example with a snap button, or a snap closure (for example a clip buckle).

For example, the first portion of the quick coupling device could comprise a snap button. In FIG. 8 , the adhesive tape 65 as a wearable element is illustrated only in combination with the fact that the first portion of the quick coupling device is irremovable with respect to the face mask 15, however, it is intuitive that said adhesive tape 65 could be used in association with a coupling device such as that illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3, 3A, 3B, as described above.

Therefore, a support apparatus 55 for a filtering type face mask 15 is also worthy of independent protection, said support apparatus 55 being provided with:

-   -   a wearable element comprising an adhesive tape 65, and with     -   a quick coupling device provided with a first portion and a         second portion 161 which are removably fixed to each other, and         in which the first portion 155 is adapted to be removably fixed         to the face mask 15, for example by means of an anchoring device         165, and the second portion 161 integrally joined with the         adhesive tape 65.

Therefore, the personal protective equipment is also worthy of independent protection and which comprises:

-   -   a filtering face mask 15 comprising a concave portion 20 adapted         to receive part of the face of a user and a filtering septum,         and     -   a support apparatus 55 for said face mask 15 which is provided         with:         -   a wearable element comprising an adhesive tape 65, and with         -   a quick coupling device provided with a first portion and a             second portion 161 which are removably fixed to each other,             and in which the first portion 155 is removably fixed to the             face mask 15, for example by means of an anchoring device             165, and the second portion 161 integrally joined with the             adhesive tape 65.

In all of the embodiments illustrated, the personal protective equipment 10,10′ is configured to be easily worn and removable from the user's face.

In particular, that is, it preferably takes place by means of magnetic connection.

Furthermore, in the case of temporary removal of the face mask 15 from the face, the latter can be fixed to the pin 64 by approaching the anchoring device 165, or the first portion 155,240 to the magnetic element 140 of the pin 64 (which is fixed to a garment). The invention thus makes available a kit comprising a face mask, a pair of support apparatuses provided with any of the described wearable elements, and a pin 64.

The invention thus conceived is susceptible to several modifications and variations, all falling within the scope of the inventive concept.

Moreover, all the details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements.

In practice, the materials used, as well as the contingent shapes and sizes, can be whatever according to the requirements without for this reason departing from the scope of protection of the following claims. 

1. Personal protective equipment comprising: a filtering face mask comprising a concave portion adapted to receive part of the face of a user and a filtering septum, and a support apparatus for said face mask which is provided with: a wearable element comprising an adhesive tape, and with a quick coupling device provided with a first portion and a second portion which are removably fixed to each other and in which the first portion is fixed to the face mask and the second portion is integrally joined with the adhesive tape.
 2. Personal protective equipment according to claim 1, wherein the quick coupling device is of the magnetic type or of the quick release mechanical type.
 3. Personal protective equipment according to claim 2, wherein the quick coupling device is of the magnetic type and one of the first portion and the second portion comprises a magnet.
 4. Personal protective equipment according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive tape comprises an inner face at least partially covered with an adhesive sub-stance and an opposite outer face.
 5. Personal protective equipment according to claim 4, wherein the outer face of the adhesive tape comprises a housing pocket inside which the second portion of the quick coupling device is housed.
 6. Personal protective equipment according to claim 1, wherein the first portion of the quick coupling device is irremovably fixed to the face mask.
 7. Personal protective equipment according to claim 6, wherein the first portion of the quick coupling device is sewn or embedded or glued or incorporated in the material that the face mask is made of.
 8. Personal protective equipment according to claim 6, wherein the face mask comprises a pair of elastic bands arranged at the ends and wherein the first portion is irremovably fixed to said elastic bands. 